Balcony solar power plant

A Balkonkraftwerk (balcony power plant) is a small photovoltaic system that you simply attach to your balcony and connect to your household electricity via a socket.

How it works: 1–2 solar panels (approx. 1.7 m² each) generate electricity that you use straight away. What you don't use flows into the grid (without payment).

Figures (Germany 2026):

• Cost: €400–800 (complete set with inverter)
• Output: up to 800 watts (increased since 2024)
• Annual yield: approx. 400–700 kWh (depending on orientation)
• Savings: €150–250 per year
• Payback: 3–5 years

Simplified since 2024: no more registration with the grid operator needed (only in the core energy market data register). Also allowed for tenants – the landlord may not forbid it (since 2024).